The Things that are God's

When the scribes and chief priests realized that he had told this parable against them, they wanted to lay hands on him at that very hour, but they feared the people. So they watched him and sent spies who pretended to be honest, in order to trap him by what he said, so as to hand him over to the jurisdiction and authority of the governor. So they asked him, ‘Teacher, we know that you are right in what you say and teach, and you show deference to no one, but teach the way of God in accordance with truth. Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?’ But he perceived their craftiness and said to them, ‘Show me a denarius. Whose head and whose title does it bear?’ They said, ‘The emperor’s.’ He said to them, ‘Then give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’ And they were not able in the presence of the people to trap him by what he said; and being amazed by his answer, they became silent. Luke 20:19-26

In this country, our coin and paper money have images of presidents and other honored people. We do not have Caesars, emperors or monarchs to whom we are expected to give our money.  We pay taxes, yes, and the expectation is that we will all pay taxes, as we all participate in a democracy. Yet, we do know some who are wealthy do not share their wealth. Jesus was being tested by the pompous religious leaders, trying to catch him in government insurrection and religious heresy. Jesus knew of their corruption and abusive leadership. We have corrupt and abusive leadership today in our country and in our church. We are invited, friends, to lead by example and truly give to God the things that are God's. Mercy, kindness, justice and compassion are of God, and we give those back to him by sharing with others. Being humble allows us to see the blessings we have received, truly knowing they are from God and not the work of our selfish and pitiful hands. 

Gracious Creator, who made all that is

your face is upon every living thing

your hands touch this beautiful earth

and your arms embrace all of humanity.

We live in a time of deep corruption

where the almighty dollar is crowned king

where we are divided and cruelly separated

yet all that is, belongs all together to you.

Help us return to your holy and loving ways

help us put your justice, kindness and compassion

first and foremost in everything that we do

so the world might know your loving embrace. Amen.